Iraq’s World Cup preparations hit by airport detention of star striker Aymen Hussein
Hussein was detained and questioned for nearly seven hours upon arriving in the United States with the national team
Iraq’s preparations for its long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup have been overshadowed by an incident involving star striker Aymen Hussein, who was detained and questioned for nearly seven hours upon arriving in the United States with the national team.
According to an Iraqi sporting official, Hussein was held by authorities at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport early Saturday after the Iraqi squad landed ahead of the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 30-year-old forward was eventually granted entry into the country, but the lengthy detention sparked concern among Iraqi officials and football supporters.
The official said Hussein underwent extensive questioning and inspection of his mobile phone before being released. The reasons behind the prolonged screening were not immediately disclosed, and neither U.S. immigration authorities nor the Department of Homeland Security issued an official explanation.
The incident was further compounded when Iraqi national team photographer Talal Salah was reportedly detained for more than 10 hours and ultimately denied entry into the United States after undergoing similar checks.
The Iraqi Football Association has not issued a detailed public statement on the matter, while Iraqi media and sports officials have called for clarification regarding the circumstances surrounding the detentions.
Hussein is one of Iraq’s most recognizable football figures and played a decisive role in securing the country’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His crucial goal in the intercontinental playoff helped Iraq reach the tournament for the first time since its only previous World Cup appearance in 1986.
The striker is expected to lead Iraq’s attack alongside a talented group of players that includes Ali Al-Hamadi, Ali Jassim, and Youssef Amyn. Iraq has been drawn in a challenging group featuring France, Senegal, and Norway.
Despite the disruption, the Iraqi delegation has continued its preparations for the tournament, with fans gathering at the airport to welcome the team upon arrival. Videos shared on social media showed supporters waving Iraqi flags and greeting players just days before the start of the World Cup.
The episode has reignited discussions about entry procedures and security screenings for athletes and officials participating in major international sporting events hosted by the United States. With thousands of players, officials, media representatives, and supporters arriving from around the world for the expanded 2026 World Cup, observers say efficient and transparent entry processes will be essential to ensuring a smooth tournament experience.
For Iraq, however, the focus now shifts back to football as the nation prepares for its first World Cup campaign in four decades and seeks to make a strong impression on the global stage.
